onawa (camp & retreat center)

The goal of Onawa is multifaceted

  • Create a rewarding and memorable outdoor camp experience for as many disadvantaged youth in Alabama as possible that will be available to them at no cost

  • Provide a welcoming environment for volunteers that encourages the broadening of their perspectives, particularly regarding the experiences of individuals from disadvantaged communities

  • Create for families and individuals who serve in disadvantaged communities a place of respite and fellowship through retreats focused on their own well-being and healing

  • Utilize the camp as a destination revenue generator to ease the fundraising burden to provide for the above three goals

With our Onawa camp location outside Verbena, Alabama, we hope to create not just a fun camp, but a space to connect and create deeper and more impactful relationships.

We have a three-year campaign to fully renovate the 100+ acre camp site

There are 22 cabins and various building around the grounds, including a 12-bedroom dorm house. Amenities will include:

  • Currently available: Olympic-sized pool, horseback riding, Centerpointe house (for housing volunteer groups onsite)

  • Under renovation: 2500 sq. ft. multi-purpose room, commercial kitchen, gym, cabins

  • Future projects: ropes course, archery, axe throwing, and more

Several volunteers working on interior framing on the walls as well as ceiling installation.

we need your help in completing camp onawa!

We have needs for skilled and unskilled volunteer labor, funding for various buildings, and much more.

We have wishlists that we will be updating regularly. Click on one of the buttons below to view them.

Donor pledge levels are being created. Check back later for the list.

We need volunteers, and we have opportunities for various skill levels. 

We can facilitate any size volunteer groups and have some overnight housing available for groups. 

Work opportunities include: cabin renovations, repairing walls, demo, landscaping, clearing trails for horses and hikers, painting, mowing, weed eating, hauling trash, chainsaw work, pool cleaning, and general cleaning.

To schedule a time to come out, please contact the property manager, Matt Kemp, via email at mattkemp@cgmlife.org.